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"This is a major step forward in citizen access to government," said Chris Leman, vice chairman of the City Neighborhood Council. "Now it is up to the citizens to submit thoughtful suggestions and make the budget process work for them."

Ryk Murakami, 11, was inspired to come up with some ideas of his own after attending a meeting with his mom, Pat Murakami, who is active on the City Neighborhood Council.

Ryk thinks Seattle could use brighter streetlights in some areas.

"At night when I walk to a friend's house, some of the lighting is low," he said. "It is kind of dark and gloomy. I've noticed it downtown, too."

Ryk said he also wants striped football fields in city parks, which are dominated by baseball diamonds and soccer fields.

"A lot of kids play football," he said. "I would like to be able to play at the park."

His other ideas also have definite kid appeal. He envisions a place where youths who don't have enough money for a game console or computer at home can go to play video games for free -- or maybe a quarter.

Other Seattle residents have already submitted ideas as well. They include:

Bike lanes

Rick McKenney suggests reconfiguring bike lanes so they are situated between parked cars and the curb, rather than right next to traffic.

"This style of bike lane has been implemented in many European cities with great success," McKenney wrote.

Carkeek sidewalks

"Carkeek Park is a huge park, but there are no sidewalks leading to the park from the Broadview neighborhood. Why have a beautiful huge park with walking trails and not have easy walking access to the park?" Barry asked.

Plaza de la Raza

Robert Dinrix proposes a pedestrian space at the Beacon Station area development.

"The existing traffic pattern is unsafe. This creates the desired pedestrian access and an urban core plaza," Dinrix said.